2016 Auto Expo: Volkswagen Polo GTI rolled out for India

Following the launch of the Beetle a few years back, Volkswagen has unveiled its second premium hatchback for India in the form of the Polo GTI at the ongoing Auto Expo in Greater Noida on Wednesday. With the popular 1.8 TSI motor that has performed powertrain duties in the Skoda Laura too, the Polo GTI will be India's most powerful hatchback at a power output of 192PS and 250Nm of torque.

What is interesting to note is that the new premium hatchback will be available in only a three-door variant as opposed to the Beetle that comes as a five-door too. The Polo GTI has been a successful product for the German car maker globally and could carve a niche for itself in India too.

Design-wise, the Polo GTI does not differ much from its regular Polo sibling apart from the three-door exteriors. The front and rear look identical, apart from a few badges here and there.

In fact, segment leaders like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Hero MotoCorp have reported de-growth of 34.3 per cent, 45 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively giving a clear indication of a prolonged slowdown in the sector.